Bird Strike Committee Proceedings
Date of this Version
September 2007
Abstract
The bald eagle is an iconic symbol representing strength and freedom throughout the Americas and evokes strong public emotion and sentiment. Despite tremendous population recovery in the United States resulting in its removal from the U.S. Department of Interiors Endangered Species list, state and federal agencies are hesitant to approve activity that could be interpreted as detrimental to eagles. Florida accounts for more than 85% of the entire southern bald eagle population and has between 1000 to 1200 mated pairs. Habitat loss and expanding populations are forcing eagles to adopt alternative nesting sites including the airport environment. Eagle / aviation conflict will most likely continue as air traffic and eagle populations increase. Cooperation from regulatory fish and wildlife agencies and conservation organizations is probable when airport operators provide a demonstrable history of wildlife abatement.